One of the most effective ways to prepare for standardized tests is to practice taking past versions. This helps you get used to the format of the multiple-choice and essay questions, and if you time yourself, it can also be good practice making sure you spend the right amount of time on each section, a crucial skill for college applications. Below are some test preparation resources that will help you prepare for your SAT, ACT, or AP exams.
Key Points:
- Full-Length Tests: Replicate the real test experience, including timing for each section.
- Realistic Questions: Include questions similar to those on the actual test.
- Timed Practice: Helps students manage their time effectively.
- Score Reports: Provide feedback on strengths and areas for improvement.
Benefits:
- Build Confidence: Familiarizes students with the test format and reduces anxiety.
- Focus Study: Identifies areas needing improvement for more efficient studying.
- Track Progress: This shows how students are improving over time.
SAT Test Structure and Scoring Overview
The SAT consists of two main sections:
- Reading and Writing
- Math
Timing and Structure:
- Reading and Writing Section:
- Time Allotted: 64 minutes
- Modules: 2 modules, each 32 minutes long
- Number of Questions/Tasks: 54
- Math Section:
- Time Allotted: 70 minutes
- Modules: 2 modules, each 35 minutes long
- Number of Questions/Tasks: 44
- Total Testing Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes (134 minutes)
- Total Number of Questions/Tasks: 98
Section Breakdown:
- Each section is divided into two modules of equal length.
- The first module in each section includes a mix of easy, medium, and hard questions.
- Based on your performance in the first module, the second module will adjust in difficulty, offering either more challenging or less challenging questions.
Additional Details:
- There is a 10-minute break between the Reading and Writing section and the Math section.
- The SAT provides 68% more time per question compared to the ACT, giving students more time to carefully consider each question.
Scoring:
- The SAT is scored on a 400-1600 scale, combining the scores of:
- Math Section: 200-800
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section: 200-800
- The optional essay is scored separately on a scale of 6 to 24.
Frequency:
- The SAT is offered seven times a year in the U.S. and internationally on select dates.
SAT Practice Tests
This free, online digital platform will help you build the reading, writing, and mathematics skills needed to succeed on the SAT.
It is officially recommended by the College Board as a test preparation resource for the SAT. Once you create your free account, you can: Complete diagnostic tests to gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. Create a personalized study plan with recommendations from Khan Academy. View instructional videos to refresh your understanding of concepts that are covered on the Praxis Core tests.
Great scores take work.
That’s why The Princeton Review designs courses to be efficient, targeted, and strategic so you make the most of every minute you spend prepping. With the Princeton Review Test Preparation, you can see where you stand with practice tests and find the right way to improve through strategy sessions.
If you are wondering where to start when it comes to studying for the SAT, don’t worry!
Millions of future college students around the world have the same question. That’s why test research experts created the Mometrix SAT Study Guide to walk you through each section, providing easy-to-understand explanations of the concepts.
Taking a full-length SAT practice test is one of the best ways to simulate test day and build advanced knowledge of the exam format.
SAT practice tests are available for free, both online and on paper. Created by the makers of the SAT, each practice test has the same types of questions you’ll see on test day.
Six of the practice tests have even previously been given as actual SAT exams.
Additionally, here’s a list of 100 of the most important you must know before taking the SAT Test.
ACT Test Breakdown and Scoring
The ACT (American College Testing) consists of four multiple-choice sections—English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science—along with an optional Writing section. Some colleges and universities either require or accept ACT writing scores, so it may be worth taking the Writing section depending on the requirements of your prospective schools.
| Section | Time Allotted | Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| English | 45 minutes | 75 |
| Mathematics | 60 minutes | 60 |
| Reading | 35 minutes | 40 |
| Science | 40 minutes | 35 |
| Writing (Optional) | 40 minutes | 1 essay |
After the Science test, you may take a shorter, multiple-choice test on one of the previous subject areas. This fifth section is used to help develop future test questions and will not affect your scores, so it’s important to do your best.
The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the composite score being the average of the four test section scores. The optional Writing test is scored separately. Many colleges and universities in the U.S. consider ACT scores as part of their college admission process.
ACT Practice Tests
If you’re preparing for the ACT, you’ll want to take at least 4 or 5 sample practice tests. Not only will this help you solidify the concepts you’re learning in a course or by self-studying, but it is one of the best ways to simulate test day.
We recommend that you treat each practice test as if it were the real thing. Print out the test and make your scratch notes directly on the test, take the test in one sitting, and follow the time limits for each section to the minute. Remember, you’re preparing your mind and body for the official ACT, and all of that practice will pay off. Good luck!
The Princeton Review offers several free ACT test prep options. Sign up for a free ACT practice test online to discover your strengths and weaknesses.
Practice with real ACT tests so you know what to expect on test day. Access five official ACT tests in the book and online, familiarize yourself with the test format, and review explanations for all your answers.
Prep anytime from your desktop with a self-study platform where you can find thousands of timed practice questions and video lessons taught by experts, or study on the go with free mobile apps, vocabulary flashcards, and Math and Verbal practice.
Students can create a personalized study plan based on their test dates and set daily goals to stay on track, while integrated lessons, practice questions, exams, flashcards, and games provide important reviews of key topics and practice to build test-taking confidence.
AP Test Timing and Structure
AP Exam is standardized testing that assesses your understanding and skills in a specific AP course. Most courses culminate in an end-of-year exam, but some, such as AP Art and Design, involve submitting a portfolio of work for evaluation.
AP Exams typically follow a consistent format, though specific requirements can vary:
- Duration: Most exams last between 2 to 3 hours.
- Multiple-Choice Section:
- Usually the first part of the exam.
- You select the correct answer from 4 to 5 options.
- Scores are based solely on the number of correct answers; there are no penalties for incorrect or unanswered questions.
- Free-Response Section:
- Often the second part of the exam.
- Requires you to provide your own answers, which could be an essay, a problem solution, or a spoken response, depending on the subject.
AP Practice Tests
Find the best free AP practice exams available online. The directory also includes other valuable resources, such as notes, outlines, multiple-choice questions, free-response questions, videos, study guides, and study packets.
Advanced Placement tests have been around for half a century. While the format and content have changed over the years, the basic goal of the AP program remains the same: to give high school students a chance to earn college credit or advanced placement. Try the following quizzes to test your skills on AP Exam practice questions.
To excel in standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams, practice is key. Utilize free practice tests and study resources to familiarize yourself with test formats and timing. This approach helps you gain in-depth knowledge and improves your readiness as a college applicant, boosting your confidence. With effective preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any exam and navigate the college planning process. Remember, thorough preparation can greatly impact your placement purposes and success in college exams
